Two problems related to engine clicking and tapping noises have been reported for the 1999 Subaru Forester. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 1999 Subaru Forester based on all problems reported for the 1999 Forester.
Loud clunking noise coming from engine. My mechanic diagnosed as a cracked cylinder or piston. Took the car to local Subaru dealership to repiar - hoping that Subaru would cover part of the cost (no longer under warrantee. ) have been told by dealership after a rep. From Subaru looked at the car - that the engine will need to be replaced. When I asked what happened. I was told that the pistons in this car do not have a skirting. Therfore when they go up and down in the cylinder they have more room than normal and can move around more. (sounds like an engineering flaw to me. ) Subaru says that they are willing to cover 40% of the cost to repair. I feel that I bought a car that wasn't designed very well - and I should not have to pay for their mistakes. I have called Subaru's costumer service hotline and am waiting for them to reply. They also told me that because I was the 2nd owner of the car - I was probably not going to get any more help. Really makes you want to buy a used Subaru!.
While driving at 70 mph, suddenly there was a clicking noise from the engine and then it stalled. The vehicle was towed to a dealership. The dealership stated, there was internal engine damage. This occurred because water seeped into the engine because of a faulty gasket.